Breadcrumbs

Why are resolutions new year centric?

Are you caught by the reflective bug as the year is about to end? Time to go into a contemplative mode! Normal denouement – setting up resolutions for the new year. While there’s nothing wrong with the practice, I beg to differ. First and foremost, resolutions are mostly corrective actions to set something straight. Do we really have to be dictated by a calendar year to change, fix or repair something? Time and tide wait for none. Why not align our life actions in a way that don’t need resolutions which anyway seem so dauting to follow?

We all wait for the new year to lose weight, to improve relationships, to become spiritual, philanthropic or a better person. Procrastination is the culprit. Resolution is like a chewing gum that loses its juice in no time. So, before our strong resolutions get diluted with each passing month, only to gather steam at the end of the year for the next year, immediate action helps.

What I want to emphasize is don’t wait for another moment to change what you wish to. Especially in relationships. There is always a scope for betterment. Never underestimate the power of nurturing it or delaying the process of improving it. One of the smartest things you can do is to identify that your relationship can end at any time. Adopting this perspective cultivates a gratitude that encourages an urgency to show your loved one just how much you care. To facilitate this change in perspective, ask yourself every morning: “Why do I value my spouse?” “How do I express that I care?” It can be something as small as a verbal compliment, a short note, text or an e-mail to let them now he/she’s in your thoughts or maybe setting up an impromptu dinner date for just the two of you. If you feel underappreciated, ask your partner to do the same. Don’t go a single day without asserting your value to each other in some small way, and see what results. No resolutions required. Just small steps in the right direction.

New year marks the beginning of many new things, but new beginnings don’t always have to wait for the new year. Renew your relationship dynamics to enjoy the fruits of togetherness all year round. A year may end, but the bond of togetherness is forever. Happy new year.